Applications are currently being accepted for the NEEDL Studentship Programme 2027. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About NEEDL Studentship Programme
NEEDL Studentship Programme supports four-year, fully funded PhD studentships that include core training, events, and a compulsory three-month internship outside academic research. The NEEDL Studentship is aimed at providing equitable assessment and selection through a standardised interview and scoring process.
The BBSRC NEEDL Studentship Programme is delivered in partnership with universities and includes central DLA training across Years 1–3; applicants should check partner university requirements for fees and documentation before applying.
Benefits of NEEDL Studentship Programme
- Studentships are four years fully funded.
- Yes, there will be an application process for additional funding for training.
- Yes, all students are expected to spend three months completing an internship outside of their academic research.
- As a part of the BBSRC NEEDL DLA there are core training and events which will be delivered to all NEEDL students within Years 1, 2 and 3.
NEEDL Studentship Programme Requirements
- Yes, a small number of awards will be available to support outstanding International applicants. The proportion of international students appointed will be limited up to 30% of the total studentship.
- It would be advisable for any international students who wishes to apply to the NEEDL studentship to check with the partner University they will be studying at before they submit an application.
- Yes it still may be possible to apply to NEEDL however if you do not have a passport at the time of application an alternative form of ID may be required.
- If a candidate is successful and they did not have their passport or English language certificate at the time of apply to the one of the partner University this would be added as part of their offer.
Application Date and Process
- Click on the link to the application website to apply.
Application Deadline
18 November, 2026
Opportunity Application
View details of
NEEDL Studentship Programme
Apply for NEEDL Studentship Programme
